While Danimals smoothies are not marketed as probiotic products, they are made with cultured Grade A low-fat milk and contain active yogurt cultures. These cultures are Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, which are standard in yogurt production. These cultures contribute to the development of the yogurt's taste and texture.
It is important to differentiate between active yogurt cultures and probiotics. While active cultures are live microorganisms used to ferment milk into yogurt, probiotics are specific types of beneficial bacteria that, when consumed in adequate amounts, may provide health benefits, particularly for digestive and immune health. Danimals products, while containing active yogurt cultures, are not formulated to provide these specific probiotic benefits, with the exception of their Super Danimals Smoothies line, which explicitly mentions added probiotics.
Danimals smoothies are marketed towards children and are highlighted as being a good source of calcium and Vitamin D, which are important for bone health. They are also Non-GMO Project Verified and do not contain artificial flavors or colors. Fruit and vegetable juice are used for coloring.
Ingredients in Danimals Smoothies
The core ingredients in Danimals smoothies generally include cultured Grade A low fat milk, water, cane sugar, and food starch. Other ingredients present in smaller amounts (less than 1%) can include natural flavors, fruit and vegetable juice for color, lemon juice concentrate, milk minerals, and Vitamin D3. The specific active yogurt cultures listed are S. Thermophilus & L. Bulgaricus.
Nutritional Information
A 3.1 fl oz serving of Danimals Strawberry Flavored Smoothie contains approximately 50 calories, 0g total fat, and 9g of total sugars. It provides 2g of protein, 10% of the daily value for Vitamin D, and 10% of the daily value for calcium. Sodium content is around 35mg per serving.
Understanding Yogurt Cultures vs. Probiotics
It's important to understand the distinction between active yogurt cultures and probiotics. While all yogurts with live and active cultures contain some beneficial bacteria from the fermentation process, they may not necessarily meet the criteria to be labeled as having probiotic benefits. Probiotics are defined by specific strains of bacteria that have demonstrated health benefits in clinical studies. The presence of S. Thermophilus and L. Bulgaricus is essential for making yogurt, but these particular cultures are not typically considered to be probiotic strains with established health claims in the same way that some other bacterial strains (like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, or LGG) are.
Comparison: Danimals Smoothies vs. Probiotic Products
| Feature | Danimals Smoothies (Regular) | Products with Probiotics |
|---|---|---|
| Contains | Active Yogurt Cultures (S. Thermophilus & L. Bulgaricus) | Specific Probiotic Strains (e.g., LGG) |
| Primary Benefit | Source of Calcium and Vitamin D, taste, texture | May support digestive or immune health (strain-dependent) |
| Probiotic Claims | Generally none, except for specific lines | Often highlight specific probiotic strain and benefits |
| Marketing Focus | Kid-friendly, taste, calcium, Vitamin D | Health benefits associated with probiotic strains |
Who Can Consume Danimals Smoothies?
Danimals are generally recommended for children aged 4 years and older. They are not recommended for babies. While they are gluten-free, individuals with specific allergies should always check the ingredient list.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Danimals smoothies do contain active yogurt cultures, specifically Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, which are vital for creating yogurt. However, they do not contain probiotics, unless it is a specific product line marketed as such, like Super Danimals Smoothies with Probiotics. Regular Danimals smoothies serve as a source of calcium and Vitamin D and are made without artificial colors or flavors, but they are not intended to provide the health benefits associated with probiotic products.
